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Texian Independence Convention, Washington-on-the-Brazos, 1 March 1836

1 Mar 1836. Convention convenes to propose a committee to draft a declaration of independence from Mexico.

2 Mar 1836. The proposed declaration was adopted. Delegates declare Texas’ independence from Mexico.

4 Mar 1836. Sam Houston was elected Commander-in-Chief of the regular and volunteer Texas land army.

7 Mar 1836. Convention establishes a military draft and organizes the army command.

14 Mar 1836. Volunteers who serve during the coming war will receive land bounties.

16 Mar 1836. Convention adopts main ideas for a constitution:

  • 1st. Establish a temporary Government ("ad interim").
  • 2nd. Government shall consist of a chief executive officer, to be styled the "President of the Republic of Texas."
  • 3rd. That all questions about the powers of these officers shall be decided by a majority.
  • 4th. That the President be elected by this Convention.
  • 5th. That the Vice-President be elected by this Convention.
  • 6th. That the members of this body vote for the above-named officers.
  • 7th. That the officers be required to take the oath prescribed by the Constitution.
  • 8th. That the President, with the agreement of a majority of his cabinet, shall appoint all officers, civil, military, and naval, for and during the existence of the Government "ad interim."
  • 9th. That this Government will have the full power to create a loan, not to exceed one million of dollars.
  • l0th. That the President and his cabinet will have full power to arrange the funds of Texas for the defense of the country.
  • 11th. That said officers hold their offices until their successors are chosen and qualified.
  • 12th. That the President with the agreement of a majority of his cabinet, will have power to issue writs of election for senators and representatives.
  • 13th. That the said Government have the power to enter into negotiations and treaties with foreign powers.
  • 14th. That the President and his cabinet have power to appoint commissioners to any foreign power.

17 Mar 1836. The convention adopts a new constitution and adjourns.


Source: Texian Independence Convention, Washington-on-the-Brazos, 1 March 1836
© 1997-2013, Wallace L. McKeehan, All Rights Reserved

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